Specialist for Talbot Park

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An aged care specialist has been brought in at Timaru's Talbot Park following an independent review commissioned by the South Canterbury District Health Board (SCDHB).

SCDHB chief executive Nigel Trainor said the move was a "proactive" approach to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the residents by improving the quality of services offered.

Gillian Robinson, a Christchurch-based aged residential care specialist, was appointed this week for an initial period of three months.

Talbot Park is a 78-bed residential care facility, run by the SCDHB. Of those 78 beds, 49 are hospital level care beds and 20 are hospital level dementia care beds.

"Recently SCDHB has become aware of areas within Talbot Park that require a focus on quality improvement and the independent review highlights these," Mr Trainor said.

"SCDHB is responding to ensure action is taken to change systems and other related issues to ensure the best possible outcomes for the residents, their families and the team at Talbot Park."

Those issues include the suitability of the facility, staffing numbers and documentation, Mr Trainor said.

"This action has not been taken as the result of any complaints being received; rather it is ... to ensure that we are providing the best possible care for our older people who reside in Talbot Park."

All staff remain in their roles.

Ms Robinson comes to the role with experience in older persons health and aged residential care. She is also a registered nurse and qualified health auditor.

"Gillian will work alongside current staff to gain a greater understanding of how services are being delivered and address any areas that will provide better outcomes for our residents," Mr Trainor said.